‘Historic research’ is key to Old Course changes

MEMBERS of the European Institute of Golf Course Architects reckon changes to the Old Course at St Andrews should only be made if they are “based on thorough historic research”.

In a poll conducted in the wake of work starting on the historic links last week, more than 70 per cent felt changes “might be appropriate” but just under 14 per cent felt “it is appropriate to alter it in response to changes in the modern game.”

Revealing the results, EIGCA president Rainer Preissmann said: “They clearly show that, while many of our members agree that it ought to be possible to carry out alterations to the Old Course, a significant majority believe that such changes should only be allowed if they reflect the historic strategy of the course. This, along with those who believe that it should remain untouched altogether, reflects the continued influence of this great links on golf course architecture and shows the high regard which architects continue to hold for the Old Course.”